Ginkgo - Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a beautiful and ancient tree that is native to China. The leaves and seeds are used medicinally. The “nuts” inside the fruits are used in a traditional food called congee. They are also used by the cosmetic industry in skin serums.
The key constituents in ginkgo are flavonoids, terpene lactones, ginkgolic acids and polysaccharides. Ginkgo is a circulatory stimulant and cardiac tonic. It is used for asthma. It is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic. It aids memory and is used for dementia. It is used for MS, and autoimmune conditions because of its anti-inflammatory effects. Ginkgo inhibits platelet activating factor (PAF which thickens blood and makes it stickier). This is thought to prevent blood clots.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine the seeds are for wheezing and phlegm. Vaginal discharge, weak bladder, incontinence. The leaves are used for asthma. Western medicine focuses on the leaves effect on the brain and the antiallergenic and anti-inflammatory actions on asthma. It is thought that the positive effects on the brain are due to increased blood flow, decreased clotting which prevents stroke, and the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is thought to be neuromodulating.
Tincture Dosing: Tincture of leaves for poor circulation 2 tsp 2-3 x day with water. Tablets or tea of the leaves for circulation and memory. Decoction of seeds for wheezing and leaves for asthma.
Possible Side Effects: bleeding, allergy
Contraindications: Do not combine with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, NSAIDs, or insulin without consulting your physician. Overconsumption of raw seeds by children can result in seizures.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any disease.